Disturbance Erupts in Ukrainian Parliament

Protesters have stormed the Ukrainian Parliament which was in session to debate and vote on whether to renew a controvertial deal to extend a Russian lease on a naval base.  Ukrainian opposition parties had threatened to disrupt the ratification process of the controversial deal which was agreed by both the President of Russia and Ukraine on April 21st.

Smoke can be seen in the parliamentary chamber, with large Ukrainian flags spread out across the room by the protesters, which early reports indicate are still in the building.  Around 1,000 supporters of the Party of Regions and the opposition are reported to be gathering outside the Supreme Rada, and local media reports that more are expected.  The speaker of the Ukrainian Parliament was reportedly pelted with eggs.

Tear gas and smoke bombs have filled the parliament building, however in defiance, the Ukrainian government continues to attempt to ratify the move.

The deal which was struck by the two presidents was an extension to the lease of the Sevastopol naval base for a further 25 years from 2017, in return for a 30% discount on Russian natural gas.

More follows.